“Moms Moving Mountains” – The Story of Smokey Hollow

Smokey Hollow was conceived by a parent who wanted to expand residential choices for her adult son who needs 24/7 support. In New York state, the group home model has years-long wait lists, and the individual and family have little choice in where and with whom the individual can live. That leaves a gaping hole in services for a vulnerable population with few viable options available to them.

Created by Trish Albanese in collaboration with her son and other adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), Smokey Hollow will be a shared living community that meets the needs and wants of its residents. 

Prospective Smokey Hollow residents are the “inclusion generation”. They have grown up going to school and participating in activities with their typical peers. Now they want the same rights as their peers when it comes to their residential needs.

Located in the Syracuse, NY area, Smokey Hollow will provide the flexibility to share staff with other residents when appropriate, and to lead lives of dignity and choice, encompassing friends, activities, work, and volunteer goals.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 08:29] Opening Segment

Trish introduces Smokey Hollow An organization focused on developing more accessible housing in New York The organization has been working to change state laws to allow for more accessible housing How Smokey Hollow has developed a model of accessible housing that others can replicate

[08:30 - 16:28] Smokey Hollow: A Community for People with Disabilities

Where the idea of creating Smokey Hollow comes from The importance of having legislation in place to make the community permanent Advocates should focus on their dream and what they believe is best for their loved ones

[16:29 - 24:19] Moms Moving Mountains

Why Smokey Hollow feels more respected than it did with the prior administration When Trish, Liz, and Marilyn believe the Smokey Hollow community will be opened

They disclose where their sons are living now

[24:20 - 30:59] Closing Segment

The New York state needs to take its accountability to those with disabilities further to fund accessible housing solutions There is a need for philanthropic and foundation support for accessible housing initiatives

Want to connect with Smokey Hollow? Visit his website, and follow them on Facebook.

Key Quotes:

"We go to the core things that are important to our loved ones which is safety." - Trish Albanese

"No one gets to defying what setting is appropriate for people, people get to define it for themselves." - Trish Albanese

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